With more firms giving extended paternity leave and other incentives, fathers in the UAE are receiving greater assistance from their employers. The five-day leave that is required by UAE labor legislation is significantly changed by this.
Leading the way, the luxury goods retailer Chalhoub Group expanded paternity leave from 14 to 30 calendar days in eight countries, including the United Arab Emirates. The six months following a child’s birth might be used to take this leave all at once or in segments. Because of its extensive parental leave policy, Chalhoub Group is ranked in the top 10% of employers in the region.
“Our people are our most valuable asset,” said Wassim Eid, President of People and Culture at Chalhoub Group. “By implementing these parent-friendly policies, we can support our colleagues in their personal and professional lives, attracting top talent across the globe.”
Research suggests that fathers taking leave to care for newborns benefits everyone. Studies show it strengthens the bond between father and child, aids in the baby’s development, and fosters a stronger relationship between parents.
Expanded paternal leave policies are well-liked across the Middle East and North Africa (86%) according to a UN Women research. Also, a notable discrepancy in child-rearing was discovered, with Arab women in charge of raising their kids devoting an average of 4.7 hours to the task for every hour males do.
“Increased parental leave allows fathers to spend more time with their children,” said Susanne Mikhail Eldhagen, UN Women Regional Director for the Arab States. “This, in turn, empowers women to participate more in the workforce, ultimately benefiting children’s well-being, family income, and national development.”
While the duration of a vacation is vital, employers are providing other support. It’s becoming increasingly usual to find flexible work schedules and financial incentives for new parents.
As HR Director of WSP Middle East, a professional services consulting business, Richard Stillgoe is acutely aware of the need for further assistance. He became aware of the restrictions on the UAE’s mandatory leave after the birth of his twin girls. “Mothers require assistance,” he stated. “We want to afford new dads the chance to experience those special moments and be present for their families.”
WSP Middle East now offers ten working-day paternity leave, which is redeemable throughout the first year following the birth of a child. They also provide more remote work choices and a program that helps new fathers return to the workforce by providing support and counselin.
Leading the way are businesses like S&P Global, which offers an incredible 26 weeks of paid parental leave. In addition, they provide health initiatives, support groups for working parents, and flexible work schedules.
“Having a child is a significant moment,” said Dimitra Manis, Chief Purpose Officer at S&P Global. “We are committed to providing the support parents need to navigate this journey successfully.”
Microsoft is another company offering competitive paternity leave in the UAE. New fathers, including adoptive dads, are entitled to six weeks of paid leave, which can be taken in segments.
“This valuable time allows fathers to bond with their newborn or adopted child and adjust to the demands of parenthood,” said Zeina Fakhry, HR Director for Microsoft Middle East.
The UAE’s evolving workplace landscape is offering more options for fathers to be active participants in their children’s lives, while maintaining their careers. This trend is not only positive for families but also contributes to a more balanced and productive workforce.
